New Pokémon Center Update Aims to Combat Scalpers and Enhance Fan Experience

Fans of trading card games have been on edge lately as The Pokémon Center gradually releases new waves of pre-orders for the 30th anniversary. The experience has been frustrating, with bots snatching up inventory in seconds while collectors wait in line for hours. Often, scalpers clear out the best items before most can even access the page. However, it seems The Pokémon Company is finally taking steps to tackle this issue.

Retail-tracking Discord servers with insights into The Pokémon Center’s backend indicate that changes to the website’s security protocols are on the horizon. Previously, buyers had to complete a CAPTCHA to enter the queue, which slowed down traffic but didn’t effectively prevent bots from seizing stock.

The upcoming system may introduce a different approach. A graphic circulating on several prominent Pokémon Discord servers suggests a new security check designed to deter bots. One example requires users to interact with a moving object and place it in the correct area. This security check appears to be called Rotation Match, alongside other challenges like ‘Path Follow’ and ‘Target Align’. While these measures haven’t been seen in action yet, they seem to incorporate dynamic elements that are harder to automate.

In theory, this could make it easier for real people to get into the queue for purchasing Pokémon cards. However, since news of these security updates has leaked before implementation, developers of popular bot programs are already brainstorming potential bypasses.

For now, TCG collectors are hopeful about a possible setback for bot programs. The next drop is rumored to feature the most expensive item in the 30th anniversary lineup, the Ultra Premium Collection. Pre-orders for the $179.99 Eevelution-themed box are already being sold at inflated prices by various vendors. Given its high price and sought-after promo cards, the UPC is expected to be one of the hardest items to find at MSRP.

Unless, of course, the new anti-bot measures are activated alongside the UPC pre-orders, which are reportedly already set up in The Pokémon Center’s backend. These alleged security updates would align with recent adjustments made to Target and Walmart websites aimed at reducing bot activity and scalping.

Regardless, Pokémon fans are gearing up for a potential new pre-order chance in the first week of August. Besides the UPC, several other products, including the Ditto Premium Collection and the Figure Collection, are still awaiting release. The first wave of 30th anniversary products is set to launch on September 16. The creators of the beloved trading card game are looking to tackle resale issues and ensure a smoother experience for collectors.